Nitrate, Nitrite spike... many deaths.....

[the croc hunter]

In my system 12 last night my octopus died. When I checked the water the nitrate/trite levels were off the charts. All that shared the tank was 2 damsels and a small crab (food). My ? is this...... are the bio wheel / eclipse systems nitrate factories? If so, what can I do to prevent this from happening again. I havent had this happen to me for years, and was very shocked. This is also, though, my first real experience with primary bio wheel filtration. Any advise would be great.
May we all share a moment of silence for the departed "Maximus." He will be replced in the tank, but not in our hearts

 

[blueberryboomer]

I'm sorry I can't offer any help with the bio thing, but wanted to let you know I will share in your moment of silence for Maximus, I'm very sorry for your loss...Lisa

 

[mr . salty]

A bio wheel is a variation on the wet/dry filter system.Wet/dry filters are very efficient at converting ammonia to nitrate.So if you don't have a heavy duty nitrate removal system in use,the 'ates will quickly build up.This can be done by using a DEEP LIVE SAND bed,or an algae refugium.Both of these setups convert nitrates into nitrogen gas.This nitrogen gas then leaves the water in bubbles...But this does NOT explain the nitrItes in your system...Is this little tank RECYCLING???

 

[the croc hunter]

Recycling is my biggest fear Im affraid.... I was thinking of filling the little area before the boi wheel with a bag of Nitro-zorb, and then filling the tank with live macro algae.. kind of making the tank itself a refugium. It already has 20 lbs of LS and 15 Lbs LR..... Would this nitrosorb/algae idea work??

 

[mr . salty]

The thing with these nitrate/nitrite sponges is that they take a long time too work(some take three months) then they only remove a small amount(like 20% of the total reading) then you must replace one third of the stuff every month to keep it going...Alot of time and money for 20% reduction...There is a reason your tank is recycling,,IT NEEDS TOO,,There is really not alot you can do but wait it out.Anything you do to reduce these high readings will only prolong the cycle.Most recycles are quick...As for the algae thing,,,It should work(in theory)...